New Syrian President Receives Supportive Greeting in Areas Once Controlled by Assad

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa received a hero’s welcome in Latakia and Tartus, once strongholds of the Assad family, during his first visit as rebel leader just over two months after toppling the brutal regime. Videos of the crowd cheering him were shared on social media, signaling a pivotal moment in Sharaa’s campaign to unify Syria. Experts noted Sharaa’s popularity across different communities, but also warned that the scenes were likely choreographed. Sharaa also met with representatives in Aleppo and Idlib provinces, seeking to build goodwill and prove his commitment to a more inclusive Syria. Western nations have been cautious of Sharaa’s rise due to his past as a former jihadist leader linked to terrorist groups, but he has been working to reassure them of his intentions for Syria’s future. Sharaa has engaged in diplomatic calls with world leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Russian President Vladimir Putin, indicating his efforts to build international cooperation. The Kremlin, a staunch supporter of Assad, has described its discussions with Sharaa as focused on trade, economic cooperation, and continued military presence in Syria. Despite some skepticism, observers are considering the possibility that Sharaa’s leadership could lead to a genuine transformation in Syria for the benefit of its people and the international community.

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